Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology

University of Maine

PhD degree in Psychology prepares students for careers in college teaching and research. Students work closely with a research advisor and begin research involvement in the first year. Research labs focus on the following specialty areas:Social PsychologyCognitive and Biological PsychologyStudents develop research skills and conduct research in one of these areas, but also acquire competence in other areas of general psychology and in statistics and experimental design. There are many opportunities for individualized study and directed readings.Opportunities for teaching are also available to advanced graduate students. Applicants should write to faculty members in their area of interest with whom they might want to do research. Facilities in the Psychology Department include laboratories for the scientific study of a wide range of human and animal behavior.Social PsychologyThe concentration in Social Psychology aims to foster a solid understanding of theory and research in social psychology, including implications of how research may be applied to solve practical problems. Students are trained principally for academic/research careers.The social concentration operates on an apprenticeship model where students work closely with faculty members on theory-driven research. Students are trained to think conceptually and to acquire proficiency in research methodology, statistics, scholarly writing, oral presentation, and teaching. Students are expected to be continually involved in research during their tenure in the department as they hone their own, independent interests.Faculty research interests include stereotyping and prejudice, self, identity, social cognition, political psychology, ideology, and social psychophysiology. Students are encouraged to explore the intersection of social psychology with other areasCognitive and Biological PsychologyThis concentration offers training in several areas of cognitive and biological psychology, including perception, creativity, decision making, aging, and behavioral neuroscience. Students develop strong research skills while conducting research in at least one participating laboratory. Students work closely with a research advisor and applicants should contact potential faculty mentors early in the application process.

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences